Mace

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The large steel head of this mace is composed of seven triangular flanges etched overall with trophies and scattered elements of armor on a dotted background; the spaces between the flanges are filled with twisted strapwork. The steel cylindrical shaft is hollow, its etched decoration en suite is arranged in four lengthwise bands, the spiral grip also etched en suite. The shaft is pierced just above the grip for a wrist strap. The decoration on this fully gilded mace is in the same style as on an armor in the Metropolitan Museum's collection (acc. no. 14.25.717a–r). Maces became increasingly popular during the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries––a parallel to the use of the war hammer––due to the ineffectiveness of edged weapons against fully developed plate armor. Though the blow of a mace could not penetrate the armor plates, it might be enough to stun or disable an opponent. Maces were used by cavalrymen, and even became a badge of rank, as was certainly the case with this example.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.

Metropolitan Museum of Art